Over the past six months, BCLC’s Human Connection Project has been helping bring people together in Kamloops through a series of community-focused events designed to foster belonging, strengthen relationships and create opportunities for meaningful connection.
Developed in partnership with local organizations and community leaders, the Human Connection Project is rooted in a simple idea: when people connect, communities thrive.
Put into action, it’s the organization and creation of welcoming spaces where Kamloops residents can build new relationships, reconnect with each other and share experiences that encourage conversation, laughter and participation.
Here are three ways we've co-designed and hosted no-charge community experiences that have helped foster human connection throughout Kamloops.
1. Bringing People Together Through Shared Entertainment
In February, BCLC partnered with Cascades Casino Kamloops to transform the gaming floor into a celebration of the iconic "Old Vegas" era. Complete with live tributes to Elvis Presley, Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra, interactive trivia, games and a dedicated BCLC Connection Corner, the event encouraged guests to gather, socialize and enjoy an evening of local entertainment, together.
More than a themed experience, the event created opportunities for conversations between old and new friends, while demonstrating how entertainment can serve as a catalyst for connection.
2. Strengthening Community Through Memorable Experiences
Later that month, BCLC joined forces with United Way BC’s Hi Neighbour program and the Kamloops Film Society to present Lights, Camera, Connection — a complimentary community screening of Ferris Bueller's Day Off at the Paramount Theatre.
The evening was designed to bring people together around a memorable and nostalgic film experience. From pre-show activities and trivia to interactive connection-building opportunities and themed refreshments, attendees were encouraged to connect throughout the entirety of the evening. The event highlighted how shared experiences can create common ground, spark conversations and strengthen social ties across generations.
3. Making Space for Meaningful Connections
In March, nearly 150 community members gathered at Valleyview Arena for Skate and Connect, a retro skate night presented by BCLC and United Way BC Hi Neighbour.
Guests were invited to bring someone they hadn't connected with in a while, creating an environment intentionally designed around connection. With a live DJ, local treats, games and plenty of opportunities for interaction, the at-capacity event demonstrated the impact of creating welcoming spaces where people can spend time together without barriers.
Looking Ahead
As we enter into the second year of the Human Connection Project in Kamloops, BCLC is continuing to work alongside the community to create meaningful opportunities for people to connect.
This includes a series of connection-focused community activations this summer, including the much-loved Music in the Park running each night at Riverside Park throughout July and August, and BCLC’s annual Midsummer Music Jam on July 22. Stay tuned for more details about the Midsummer Music Jam—we can’t wait to see you there.
We’re also excited to expand the project into the Tri-Cities (Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody) this year and collaborate with local partners and community groups to deliver engaging experiences that bring people together and help strengthen the social fabric of these communities over the next two years.
Join us at these upcoming Tri-Cities events this summer as we create more opportunities to gather, celebrate and build meaningful connections with friends, families and neighbours.
Because stronger connections help build stronger communities.
To learn more about BCLC’s social purpose and the BCLC Human Connection Project, visit: bclc.com/humanconnection.
